Guaranteed behavior in shape memory alloys : Short- and long-time effects related to temperature and phase coexistence

A phenomenological approach, in the parent phase of Cu-Zn-Al shape memory alloy, establishes a predictable model (or mathematical equations) relating the dependence of Ms with the temperature over a long period of time (i.e. seasonal or yearly room temperature). High-resolution resistance and temperature measurements vs. time are used. The long time Ms tracks the external room temperature via two temperature dependent time constants. In steady state, the changes in Ms approach17 per cent of the ‘room’ temperature change. The detailed analysis shows the puzzling disappearance of the after quench effects.